Meet our colleague – Marjo Santanen

"The most important tasks in my position involve ensuring that team members have good working conditions and resources to perform their work safely and efficiently. My job includes communication with the sales team and colleagues in various teams, both locally and across the mills."

Starting as the Quality and Environment Manager in 2018, Marjo Santanen quickly proved her ability to lead and innovate. Her journey at Billerud has been filled with challenges, growth, and a deep commitment to communication.

"When I began as the Quality and Environment Manager, the previous person had already retired, so I had to start from scratch with limited information about how the job had been done previously. It turned out to be a more significant task than I initially thought, and since the organization in Pietarsaari is small, there was no one else performing the same role. I learned a lot from colleagues, both in Pietarsaari and at other mills. Collaboration and communication have been the most crucial aspects of my career at Billerud."

How did you end up in the paper industry and at Billerud?
"I have been interested in the pulp and paper industry for a long time, even before my studies. I come from Eastern Finland, where there are many pulp mills and a lot of forestry. During my university studies, I found the process industry interesting, and I was familiar with Billerud and found their mission interesting. Pietarsaari has been a great place to live with my family, and Billerud has been an excellent employer where I have thrived. As a bonus, Billerud offers great benefits compared to many other companies."

By 2021, Marjo stepped into the role of Production Director, where she’s driven by the constant improvement she sees within her team. As Production Director, she ensures her team has the right conditions to work safely and efficiently, all while maintaining clear communication with the sales team and colleagues across various mills.

What would you say you have learned from your career journey at Billerud?
"Communication – communication – communication. This is something where you can never be good enough, and you can always continue to improve. I have learned to be humble, as things are rarely as they initially seem. Always ask if you have any questions, and preferably ask several different people. Finally, I have learned that mistakes are for learning, not for panicking."

What would you say to people who are at the beginning of their careers at Billerud?
"Be curious about things outside your role. Actively participate. Get to know people, not just processes."

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